Pakistan Studies · 10
The Ombudsperson, known as Mohtasib in Pakistan, plays a vital role in addressing complaints of citizens against government departments and agencies. The institution works independently and impartially to investigate allegations of maladministration, injustice, corruption, or delay in public services. When a citizen files a grievance, the Ombudsperson examines the case, calls for records, and gives both parties a chance to present their side. If the complaint is found valid, the Ombudsperson recommends appropriate action to the concerned department, which may include compensation, disciplinary action against officials, or changes in procedures. The office has the same powers as a civil court to summon witnesses and require production of documents. Importantly, the Ombudsperson provides speedy and inexpensive relief to ordinary people who cannot afford lengthy court battles. In Pakistan, the Federal Ombudsperson deals with federal agencies, while provincial ombudspersons handle provincial matters. This institution ensures transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance by making public officials answerable for their actions.
Role of Women Ombudsperson in Pakistan: The Women Ombudsperson was established under the Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act 2010. Her office provides a mechanism for working women to complain about harassment, discrimination, or unfair treatment at their workplaces. When a complaint is received, the Women Ombudsperson conducts an inquiry, gives both parties a chance to be heard, and issues orders which may include reinstatement of the complainant, compensation, or disciplinary action against the harasser. The office also works to create awareness among women about their rights and conducts training sessions for employers and employees. This institution has been very helpful in encouraging women to report harassment without fear and has contributed to making workplaces safer and more respectful for women across Pakistan.
Role of Human Rights Cell in Supreme Court of Pakistan: The Human Rights Cell was established in the Supreme Court of Pakistan to address human rights violations across the country. It takes suo motu notice (on its own) of human rights issues reported in media or brought to its attention. The Cell examines complaints about bonded labor, child labor, missing persons, religious minorities' rights, women's rights, environmental issues, and other fundamental rights violations. When a case is identified, the Supreme Court issues notices to relevant authorities, seeks reports, and passes orders for immediate relief and long-term solutions. The Cell has played a crucial role in freeing bonded laborers, recovering kidnapped children, protecting minority communities, and ensuring access to justice for marginalized groups. It acts as a watchdog to ensure that the fundamental rights guaranteed in the Constitution are actually implemented in practice.
The Ministry of Human Rights is the federal government department responsible for protecting and promoting human rights in Pakistan. Its main functions include: formulating national policies and laws related to human rights, ensuring that all legislation complies with international human rights standards, and coordinating with provincial governments to implement human rights protections. The Ministry works to create awareness among citizens about their fundamental rights through campaigns, seminars, and educational programs. It handles complaints of human rights violations and refers them to appropriate authorities for action. The Ministry also prepares reports for international bodies like the United Nations on Pakistan's human rights situation and represents Pakistan in international human rights forums. It oversees the implementation of various laws related to women's rights, child protection, minority rights, and disability rights. Additionally, the Ministry runs helplines and service centers where citizens can report violations and seek guidance. It works closely with civil society organizations and human rights commissions to ensure that every Pakistani can enjoy their basic rights without discrimination.
In our society, various forms of harassment are commonly observed. These include street harassment (eve-teasing), workplace harassment, cyber harassment, academic harassment, domestic harassment, and harassment based on gender or social status. Below are detailed notes on two common forms:
1. Street Harassment (Eve-teasing): This is one of the most common forms of harassment in our areas, especially faced by women and girls while commuting or in public places. It includes catcalling, whistling, passing lewd comments, unwanted touching, staring, and following someone. Girls often feel unsafe while walking to school, college, or markets. Many women have to change their routes or avoid going out alone after dark. This harassment creates fear and restricts women's mobility and freedom. It also causes psychological stress, anxiety, and loss of confidence. The worst part is that many people consider it normal or harmless, so victims hesitate to report it. However, laws like the Protection of Women Against Harassment Act exist to address this, and awareness is slowly increasing.
2. Cyber Harassment: With the increasing use of internet and social media, cyber harassment has become very common, especially among young people. It includes sending offensive messages, sharing private photos without consent, creating fake accounts to harass someone, online stalking, and spreading rumors or lies about someone on social media platforms. Many girls and boys have faced blackmail when their private pictures were shared without permission. Cyber harassment causes severe mental trauma, humiliation, and sometimes leads to depression or even suicide. The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 provides legal protection, and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has a cyber crime wing to handle such complaints. However, many victims do not report due to fear of social stigma or lack of awareness about how to file complaints. It is important to educate young people about safe internet use and encourage them to report any harassment immediately.
📝 Teacher's note: These answers are written in paragraph form as expected in a student's notebook. Each answer explains the concept clearly with examples and follows a logical flow. Students should write similar detailed paragraphs in their exams to get good marks.
